Origin
Canthium macrostipulatum (De Wild.) Evrard, commonly known as the African tea plant, belongs to the family of Rubiaceae. It is native to Central Africa and can be found in countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo.
Common Names
Canthium macrostipulatum has several common names based on its habitat and uses. In Cameroon, it is called 'Odok Odok,' while in Congo, it is known as 'Makina.' Other common names include the African tea plant, bitter-bush, and queue de rat in French.
Uses
The African tea plant has been used traditionally by African communities for its medicinal properties. The stem bark and leaves are used to treat diarrhea, fever, and stomach ache. The roots are also used as a laxative, while the leaves are brewed as tea to stimulate bowel movement. The plant extract is commonly used in the cosmetics industry as an active ingredient for hair growth products.
General Appearance
The African tea plant is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 3 meters in height. Its leaves are simple, opposite, and elliptic. The plant produces small, white or cream-colored flowers that are about 5mm in diameter. The fruits are small, acidic, and red when ripe. The stem and branches of the plant are covered in smooth, gray, or brownish-bark. The plant has a bitter taste, owing to the presence of alkaloids.
Light Requirements
Canthium macrostipulatum prefers full to partial sun exposure for optimal growth. Direct sunlight for six to eight hours a day is beneficial for this plant to thrive.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to tropical regions and therefore cannot tolerate frost or cold temperatures. It thrives best in warm temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
Soil Requirements
Canthium macrostipulatum prefers well-drained, loamy soils that are slightly acidic (pH level between 5.5 and 6.5). It can also grow well in sandy soils with adequate moisture.
The plant requires a good amount of moisture but does not do well in waterlogged soils. Therefore, it is recommended to water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
Adding organic compost to the soil improves the fertility and nutrient content, thus promoting growth and root development.
Cultivation methods for Canthium macrostipulatum
Canthium macrostipulatum is an evergreen shrub that usually grows to a maximum height of 2-3 meters and spreads for up to 2 meters. It typically thrives in a range of habitats, including forest edges, savannas, and rocky hills. When planting Canthium macrostipulatum, ensure you provide enough space to allow it to grow and spread out. It is best to plant this shrub in a spot that gets partial to full sunlight, and the soil must be well-draining and rich in organic matter.
Watering needs for Canthium macrostipulatum
Canthium macrostipulatum requires regular watering, especially during the dry season, to keep the soil moist but not over-saturated. This shrub responds well to deep watering, which encourages the roots to grow deep into the soil. It is essential to avoid overhead watering as it can lead to pest and disease problems. Instead, irrigate the shrub directly at the base to prevent water loss through evaporation.
Fertilization of Canthium macrostipulatum
To promote optimal growth and flowering of Canthium macrostipulatum, fertilize the soil around the shrub with a balanced organic fertilizer during the growing season. This shrub prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. Over-fertilization of this shrub can lead to excessive leaf growth and weak stems, making it vulnerable to pest and disease problems.
Pruning of Canthium macrostipulatum
Pruning Canthium macrostipulatum helps to maintain its shape, keep it healthy, and encourage new growth. This shrub can be pruned at any time of the year, but it is best to prune during the early spring after flowering. When pruning, remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. You can also prune to shape the plant or reduce its size. It is recommended that you use clean and sharp shears or pruning equipment to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Canthium macrostipulatum
Canthium macrostipulatum can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Canthium macrostipulatum can be collected from mature fruits. The seeds need to be cleaned and soaked in water for a day or two to soften their hard outer coat. After soaking, the seeds should be planted in a suitable potting mix and kept in a warm, humid location. The best time for seed sowing is at the start of the growing season in spring or early summer.
Cutting propagation
Canthium macrostipulatum can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from mature, woody stems and stripped of their leaves. The lower portion of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root formation. These cuttings should be placed in a suitable potting mix and kept in a warm, humid location until roots appear. The best time to take cuttings is during the plant's active growing season.
Air layering
Air layering is another method of propagating Canthium macrostipulatum. This method involves making a cut in a mature stem, packing it with damp sphagnum moss or a similar substrate, and wrapping it with plastic wrap to keep it moist. The cut stem should be left in this condition for several weeks until roots develop at the cut site. Once roots have developed, the stem can be removed from the parent plant and planted in a suitable potting mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Canthium macrostipulatum
Canthium macrostipulatum is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to disease and pests. However, some common issues affect this plant, and it's essential to manage them to maintain optimal growth and health.
Common Diseases
One common disease affecting Canthium macrostipulatum is leaf spot, which causes browning and yellowing of leaves. This disease is caused by a fungus that spreads through water droplets. To manage this disease, remove affected leaves and prune excessively wet or dense growth to increase airflow. Applying a fungicide can also help prevent further spread of the fungus.
Another disease that can affect Canthium macrostipulatum is root rot, which causes wilting and yellowing of leaves. This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil and can lead to plant death. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is planted in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Fungicides may also be applied to prevent further spread.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests affecting Canthium macrostipulatum is aphids, which suck sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and yellow. To manage aphids, wash the plant with soapy water or use insecticidal soap. Natural predators such as ladybugs can also help control aphids.
Another common pest that affects Canthium macrostipulatum is spider mites, which cause yellowing and speckling of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap. Neem oil can also be applied to control spider mites.
Conclusion
Managing diseases and pests for Canthium macrostipulatum is crucial to maintaining the plant's optimal growth and health. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of disease or pest infestation and take prompt action to manage them to prevent further spread and damage.
